39 msfocusmagazine.org words like dull, throbbing, intense, or sharp to describe what kind of pain it is. 3. Location – What part or parts of the body does the symptom affect and does that change over time? If it helps to clarify, point to the places on your body that are affected. 4. Causes – Do you know what triggers your symptom? Your journal becomes a useful tool for identifying actions or events that consistentlyresultinasymptomflare.Onthe flip side, what makes the symptom better? 5. Effect – Share how much a symptom is affecting your feelings, work, or relation- ships. For example, does incontinence make you depressed or anxious? Are you afraid to leave the house? Is your fatigue so debilitating you can’t keep up at work? Examples such as these can helpyourdoctor assess severity as well as assign treatment priority. 6. Context – Explain measurable differences in how you carry out daily activities now compared with what you were able to do before the symptom started. Rather than saying “I can't do things like I used to,” be specific. Some examples are “I'm sleeping 12 hours a day instead of eight,” or “I can't walk to my mailbox anymore.” 7. Medication – Make sure your medication list is up-to-date and includes anynutritional supplements or herbal remedies you’re taking, as they can interact and affect symptoms just as prescription medications can. Also, if you’re not adhering to medications as prescribed, your doctor needs to know. For some, this can be difficult to admit, but your healthcare success depends on full disclosure. 8. Other Factors – Be honest about any recreational drug use or alcohol abuse that may be affecting your health. Though you might be reluctant to mention these things, it is in your best interest to tell your doctor about them. Let your doctor know when you’re uncomfortable with a certain topic but that you reallywant to share so you can get help. 9. Persistence – If you don’t feel as though you’re being heard, or not taken seriously, persist in explaining what you’re experiencing and why you need relief. You’re the expert on your MS and only you can describe the effect your symptoms have on your life. 866 782 9658 Learn More at AquilaCorp.com